WNBA Referees Disqualify Two Players Under New ‘No Anthem Kneeling’ Rule
In a significant move that has sparked widespread debate, WNBA referees
disqualified two players during a recent game for violating the league’s newly
implemented “No Anthem Kneeling” rule. This controversial regulation, which was

introduced to ensure uniformity and respect during the national anthem, has been

The two players, whose identities have not been disclosed, were seen kneeling
during the national anthem as a form of protest—a gesture that has been widely
used across various sports leagues to highlight social justice issues. However, with

the WNBA’s new rule in place, this act resulted in their immediate disqualification

The decision to enforce this rule so strictly has led to a heated discussion about the
balance between freedom of expression and the enforcement of league policies.
Supporters of the rule argue that it helps maintain respect and unity during the
anthem, while critics believe it suppresses players’ rights to peacefully protest and
bring attention to important social issues.
As the WNBA continues to navigate this complex issue, the disqualification of these
two players serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tension between personal
expression and organizational regulations. It remains to be seen how the league will

address the broader implications of this incident and whether further disciplinary